DRINKERS in Maidstone could face having their alcohol confiscated if they are caught in booze-fee zones. It's part of a scheme being considerred by borough councillors.

The council is looking at the possibility of imposing a ban on drinking in public which would apply in parts of the borough except licensed premises such as pubs and clubs.

A feasibility study is being carried out in the latest phase of consultation approved by Cllr Mike FitzGerald (Ind), the council's community safety and social inclusion portfolio holder. Councillors believe the ban could prove crucial in dealing with disturbances especially at night-time over the weekends when the town centre attracts up to 12,000 revellers.

The scheme is backed by Maidstone and Malling Police, who say it could be vital in the fight against crime, litter, anti-social behaviour and criminal damage. Police cited incidents where bottles and cans had been used as weapons causing serious harm and permanent disfigurement.

Police spokeswoman Gianna Pollero said: "Maidstone does not have a huge problem with people carrying drink around the streets but this new plan would help as and when difficult situations arose."

Cllr FitzGerald said: "What we are looking at would not curtail people's rights. It would simply improve people's quality of life."

Cllr Richard Lusty (Con), who wants the policy introduced throughout the Maidstone borough, said: "If youths get involved in a confrontation, it is so easy to use bottles as a weapon. When there are so many young people, it can be very intimidating, even for police."

To implement the ban, the council is considering putting up signs showing the no drinking zones. Police would carry out patrols and would seize alcohol from people drinking in banned areas.

The initiative follows the new Criminal Justice Police Act, which gives local councils powers to impose the no alcohol zones.